The Politics of Supreme Court Appointments in Supreme Revenge: Battle for the Court
Introduction
The PBS Frontline documentary Supreme Revenge: Battle for the Court begins with the breaking news of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s passing at the age of 87. The newsreaders reflect on her role as a pioneer of women’s rights and gender equality. The focus then shifts to President Trump’s opportunity to nominate a third Supreme Court justice and his apparent lack of knowledge about Ginsburg’s passing during a rally. Mourners gather in front of the Supreme Court to pay tribute to Ginsburg, but for Democrats, her death was a nightmare, occurring just over a month before the election.
From her deathbed, Ginsburg requested that her seat be reserved until after a new president is elected. However, Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell had other plans. He saw this as an opportunity to cement a conservative majority on the Supreme Court, a goal he had pursued throughout his political career. McConnell promptly reached out to President Trump and urged him to nominate Amy Coney Barrett, a conservative appeals court judge, to secure the Court’s control for years to come.
Reflection
The video presents a significant moment in U.S. Supreme Court history, marked by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Kirk & Wiser, 2019). As a key advocate for women’s rights and a liberal icon, Ginsburg’s death left a void in the Court and triggered a highly contentious battle over her replacement. Ginsburg’s final wish not to have her seat filled until after the election showcased her dedication to preserving the Court’s balance and respecting the democratic process. However, Senator McConnell’s swift actions to fill the vacancy with a conservative nominee raised questions about the politicization of judicial appointments. The urgency with which McConnell sought to secure a conservative majority on the Court, despite his past opposition to confirming a nominee during an election year, underscored the contentious nature of Supreme Court nominations.
The video also highlights previous contentious confirmation battles, such as those involving Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh. The confirmation process has become increasingly polarized, with nominees facing intense scrutiny and character attacks from opposing parties. The use of attack ads and campaigns to undermine nominees’ reputations reveals a troubling trend in the politics of judicial appointments.
The video’s historical context sheds light on the significance of Supreme Court nominations in shaping the nation’s judiciary for generations to come. The Court’s role in interpreting the Constitution and making decisions that impact the lives of all Americans makes the nomination and confirmation process of utmost significance. In the case of Judge Robert Bork, the video highlights how his nomination faced vehement opposition from liberal Democrats, resulting in a fierce political battle and ultimately leading to his rejection. This marked a turning point in the nomination process, setting a precedent for the politics of destruction in the modern era.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s passing and the subsequent nomination of Amy Coney Barrett underscore the immense significance of Supreme Court appointments in shaping the Court’s trajectory and the nation’s legal landscape. The video program highlights the polarized and contentious nature of the confirmation process, revealing a troubling trend of politicization and fierce partisanship. As citizens, we must reflect on the importance of an independent and impartial judiciary to ensure that the Court remains an institution that upholds the principles of justice and the rule of law.
Reference
Kirk, M., & Wiser, M. (Directors). (2019). Supreme Revenge: Battle for the Court [TV program]. PBS. Web.